Officials are investigating a wave of politically charged vandalism after offensive fliers were discovered at multiple locations across New York City this week. The fliers, which appear to mock former governor Andrew Cuomo, have been defaced with a white substance described by sources as semen and the printed name altered to read “Cumo”.
City law enforcement began receiving reports on Tuesday after the fliers were found posted on lamp posts, storefront windows and subway station bulletin boards in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The content and method of the postings prompted complaints from residents and business owners who described the materials as deliberately provocative.
According to sources with knowledge of the investigation, three people have been detained on suspicion of vandalism in connection with the incidents. Authorities have not released the identities of those detained and say the investigation remains active.
A spokesperson for the New York Police Department declined to provide details on the ongoing probe, citing the sensitivity of the investigation. City officials said crews were working to remove the fliers and sanitize affected surfaces. Several local business owners reported that staff had to close temporarily to clean interior displays.
The incidents come amid heightened political tensions around Andrew Cuomo, who has been a prominent figure in state and local politics. In recent weeks his campaign and public profile have been the subject of intensive media scrutiny and debate. The vandalism has drawn sharp reactions from elected officials and community leaders who condemned the conduct while acknowledging the importance of free expression and protest.
“Vandalism and the defacing of property are not acceptable methods of political discourse,” said one councilmember in a brief statement. “We must allow for lawful protest and ensure that disputes are settled through the democratic process rather than by harming public or private property.”
Some residents described the fliers as part of a growing movement of visible dissent. “It feels like people are more willing to show anger in the street,” one community organizer said. “Whether you agree or disagree with the target, crossing the line into property damage is troubling.”
Legal experts note that those detained could face charges related to vandalism, criminal mischief and related offenses depending on the results of the investigation and any property damage assessed by municipal crews. Prosecutors will likely weigh the evidence, the extent of the damage and any prior records in determining potential charges.
Police said they are reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing neighborhoods for witnesses. Anyone with information about the postings is being asked to contact the NYPD tip line.
